My Furry Friend

Many people view and refer to dogs as pets.  I, on the other hand, know differently.  A good dog is a part of the family.  Scout is my 3 year old "mut" (I can't let her hear me call her that) that has filled my life with laughter, anger, happiness, and love.  All the emotions that go with loving and caring for someone greatly.  Knowing that much of this blog relates back to running, I'm sure that you are expecting me to tell you that she is a wonderful running partner.  Quite the contrary, she may be the worst running companion ever.  She has little, if any impulse control, meaning that the mere sight of a squirrel sends her into tirade.  Thus, I dread the idea of running with Scout, but I occasionally brave the inevitable and take her with me. Aside from her minor behavioral problems and lack of self control, Scout is a great life companion.  She snuggles, watches TV, steals pizza, hides bones (from who I'm not sure), and insists on giving everyone she meets "human" hugs.  Her loving personality and constant smile fills my house with joy.  Fortunately, Scout loves Katie, my fiance, just as much as me, if not more (Katie feeds her more "human" food).  I am excited about the years ahead and Scout's ever growing role as an integral part of our lives.  To anyone out there that is considering adding a furry friend to your household, just do it.  There will be times that you question the decision, but in the end you will be forever thankful that you added them to your family.  Please visit your local Humane Society or rescue group prior to purchasing a dog.  There are tons of homeless dogs waiting on a good family.  Scout was one of these dogs, and I can say from experience that you will not find a more loyal, loving dog, than a dog that was once forgotten.  They will be forever greatful for your kindness.  Enjoy the journey!

Me and Scout (I think she sees a squirrel in the distance)!

Me and My Family!

Training for a Cause: Soles 4 Souls

Going forward, I will be training for a cause.  I have decided to donate $10 to Soles 4 Souls for every 100 miles that I log on dailymile.com.  As of today, Soles 4 Souls has provided over 7 million pairs of shoes to people around the world.  They distribute a new pair of shoes every nine seconds, and I wanted to be a part of such a great cause.  I am closing in on my first 100 miles logged, and I can't wait to make my first $10 donation.  I encourage everyone to train for a cause.  It is rewarding in so many ways and it seems to make those early morning or late evening runs seem a lot easier.  Especially when it's freezing outside!  Just knowing that someone else will benefit from your efforts makes all the difference in the world.  Feel free to join me in supporting Soles 4 Souls by clicking on the link under my dailymile counter or visiting  http://www.soles4soulsfundraising.org/timothy_wakefield.  I truly believe that this is a wonderful organization that is working towards a very noble cause, and I look forward to supporting them for many years to come.  My goal for the remainder of this year is to log a minimum  of 2000 miles, which would translate into $200 worth of donations.  It is important for you to understand that every penny matters and if you have an interest in helping out this organization please click on the link provided above.  I look forward to sharing this journey with you, and I hope that this encourages you to find a way to help make this world a better place.  Please track my progess and provide input along the way.